News Releases

4-H club helps youth experiencing anxiety, stress, depression
URBANA, Ill. – Teens are experiencing anxiety, stress, and depression throughout the pandemic, according to a Harris Poll conducted by 4-H, the national youth development organization. University of Illinois Extension is offering support for struggling youth, providing a safe place to talk about...
Planting trees boosts curb appeal and benefits the urban environment
URBANA, Ill. – New homeowners often wonder about the value of planting shade trees when they first move in when there are so many more areas to focus on with a new home. “Planting shade trees is an investment for the future just like other home upgrades,” says...
Two local Master Gardeners earn state honor
Pat Gunnerson of Kendall County and Colleen Haas of Kane County recognized for ‘helping others learn to grow’ URBANA, Ill. – Pat Gunnerson of Yorkville and Colleen Haas of South Elgin each earned a 2020 State Outstanding Master Gardener Award. The State...
Wellness, nutrition education training for early childcare providers
URBANA, Ill. – Positive habits for children start with healthy, happy, and empowered childcare providers. Early childcare professionals and education centers interested in learning how to maintain and reinforce healthy choices within a childcare work environment will learn strategies to build...
Use fall leaves in home compost
URBANA, Ill. – As fall approaches, homeowners begin to think of what to do with the falling leaves. Composting is an option which helps the environment, says Duane Friend,...
Keep deer away from your plants this fall
Deer can wreak havoc on plants during fall and winter months. University of Illinois Extension offers advice to help homeowners reduce damage from deer. Exclusion "Fences offer the best way to control deer damage in certain situations; however, large-...
Extension initiative supports urban ag programs, career paths for youth
URBANA, Ill. – Advanced food science technologies, combined with a growing focus on food security and sustainable farming, are expanding Illinois agriculture potential from rural to rooftop. Urban agriculture contributes to local food security, small business development, youth development, and...
tractor in field at night
Make hitting the hay a priority during harvest
SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - For many farmers, fall requires long days in the field and little rest. The pressure to harvest as much as possible combined with fatigue and looming deadlines can result increase the risk of potential hazards. Safety and health of workers, including making time for...